How to Make a Halloween Drawstring Bag: A Fun and Easy Tutorial
Whether you’re gearing up for trick-or-treating, hosting a spooky party, or prepping classroom favors, a Halloween-themed drawstring bag is a versatile and festive choice. This simple tutorial will guide you through making your own drawstring bags, perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. You’ll have these bags ready in just an hour or two!
Materials You’ll Need
- Fun Halloween fabrics
- Drawstring or cord
- Scissors
- Fabric marker or chalk
- Sewing machine and thread
- Safety pin
- Optional: fusible interfacing or batting for added structure
Getting Started with Your Pattern
- Create the Pattern
- Start with an 8″x10″ piece of paper.
- Draw a rectangle measuring 7.25″ x 9.75″ and cut it out.
- Mark a dotted line 0.5″ from the top. Then, mark another dotted line 1″ below this.
- On each side, draw a dotted line 5/8″ in from the edge.
- Measure 6.5″ down from the top on each side and place a bold dot where these measurements intersect the side lines.
- Your pattern should resemble this outline:
Sewing Your Drawstring Bag
- Cut and Prepare
- Cut out the pattern piece from your fabric.
- Place the pattern on the fabric with the right sides together, aligning along the fold line at the bottom.
- Sew the Sides
- Stitch from the folded edge to the dot, matching the dots on both sides. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam.
- Press the seams open and continue pressing to the top edge.
- Create the Tubing
- Fold the top edge under 1/2″, press, then fold down another 1″, and press again. Stitch close to the edge to form a tube on each side.
- Add the Drawstring
- Cut two 18″ pieces of yarn or cord. Use a safety pin to thread each piece through the tubing from opposite directions. A turning tube can make this step easier.
- Tie the ends of the cord together.
Customizing Your Bag
For a bag that stands on its own, consider adding fusible interfacing to give it more structure. You can also quilt the bag with batting for extra durability and charm. When adjusting the bag’s size, remember to modify the drawstring channels accordingly.
Filling and Finishing Touches
Fill your bag with Halloween goodies like Capri Sun, Halloween Pretzels, Ring Pops, or even Vampire Glow-in-the-Dark Slime. For a touch of elegance, stuff a couple of pieces of tulle at the top!
This drawstring bag tutorial is not only easy but also a perfect afternoon craft. It’s a great project for beginners and offers plenty of room for customization to fit your Halloween theme.
Ready to get crafting? Purchase your Halloween fabrics through my Amazon affiliate link. Happy sewing!
Additional Tips
- Pressing for Clean Lines: Proper pressing ensures neat, professional-looking seams. Learn more about pressing techniques for a polished finish.
- Sewing Hem Tips: For a cleaner look, make sure to press your hem well before stitching.
By following this guide, you’ll create delightful and functional Halloween drawstring bags that are sure to impress. Enjoy your crafting!